DP World makes an offer to acquire 100% stake in Imperial

July 8, 2021: Imperial today announced that it has entered into a transaction implementation agreement regarding a cash offer of ZAR66 per share from DP World to acquire all outstanding shares of Imperial, implying an estimated aggregate cash consideration of c. ZAR 12.7 billion.

This offer represents a premium of 39.5 percent to the Imperial share price as of July 7, 2021, and a 34.2 percent premium to the 30-day volume-weighted average price of Imperial.

“DP World is interested in acquiring Imperial and all its businesses to expand its logistics footprint in Africa and Europe. Imperial’s Logistics International business is within the scope of the offer and as such will not be sold separately under this proposed offer,” reads the release.

Mohammed Akoojee, group CEO of Imperial, said, “This transaction will be value-enhancing for Imperial as our business will benefit from DP World’s leading technology, global networks and key trade-lane volumes while enabling us to build on our gateway to Africa strategic and growth ambitions. Our Logistics International business and operations are also aligned with DP World’s strategic expansion plans on the European continent. Combining DP World’s world-class infrastructure, specifically, its investment and expertise in ports on the African and European continents, with Imperial’s logistics and market access platforms will enable us to offer integrated end-to-end solutions along key trade lanes into and out of Africa and accelerate our position in Europe, driving greater supply chain efficiencies and ultimately enhancing value for all stakeholders.”

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, group chairman and CEO of DP World, said: “We are excited to announce the proposed acquisition of Imperial, which will add significant strategic value to DP World given its attractive footprint and strong logistics solutions capability. Imperial has a significant presence in Africa, a market where trade is expected to grow at more than 2x GDP driven by population growth, accelerated urbanisation and rising middle classes. Imperial’s business strongly complements DP World’s existing footprint in Africa and Europe and will allow us to deliver a fully integrated end-to-end solution to cargo owners across a wider market.”